Your impressions of someone can be quite a misconception.
There is a pastor, here at camp that I see every year but have never got to know.
To be truthful, over the years I’ve never really noticed him outside of class.
I know he was probably in the canteen area and perhaps watching the games, but he was just such a quiet fellow that I didn’t notice him.
I don’t know how many years he has been coming but know it to be more than two.
And he and I have never spoken to each other.
If you know me you know that one word from you can bring a barrage of words from me and the conversation is on.
Yes, indeed, I like to talk.
So someone that doesn’t talk can see somewhat distant and aloof.
Last night we passed each other at the canteen area and he asked, “How’s it going?”
The conversation commenced!
I learned more about him in 5 minutes than I have in the past couple of years.
He is a very intelligent and very talkative, once you get him started.
I learned he is a braver man than I when it comes to a dangerous hunting sport that he enjoys.
I have gained new respect for him.
So my first impression of him is entirely wrong though I did believe he was quite studious since he was always reading his Bible.
Speaking of which, it is written don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. Don’t think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing. Phil 2:3-4 NLT
We are not here as Christians to make a good impression on others.
We are here to live for Christ so that others can have a good impression of Him and be drawn to Him for salvation.
As Paul said in 1 Cor 11:1, imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.